Understanding LTE Network Architecture
This blog will discuss the LTE network architecture and its components. The UE, E-UTRAN, and EPC are explained in detail, along with their functions and communication pathways. The advantages and disadvantages of LTE architecture are also highlighted. The blog concludes with a summary of the LTE network architecture.
Introduction
LTE is a popular wireless standard used for high-speed data transmission in mobile devices and data terminals. It is based on GSM/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA network technologies, which are simplified by adopting a new radio interface. This increases capacity and speed. Devices that support both CDMA2000 and GSM/UMTS networks can use LTE frequencies and bands, but only multi-band phones can use them in all countries where LTE is supported.
LTE ARCHITECTURE
The LTE network architecture comprises three main components:
* User Equipment (UE)
* Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN)
* Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
EPC has an upgraded packet core that connects to packet data networks such as the internet, a private network, or multimedia subsystem. The system uses Uu, S1, and SGi interfaces for communication between its parts.User Equipment (UE) Architecture for LTE
The UE architecture for LTE is the same as UMTS and GSM, as it also uses Mobile Equipment (ME). The core modules of mobile equipment include:
– The Mobile Termination (MT) module for all communication functions.
– The Terminal Equipment (TE) module for terminating data streams.
– The Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC), or USIM, for LTE equipment SIM card containing user’s information like telephone number, home network identity, and security keys.E-UTRAN Access Network Architecture
The E-UTRAN is a UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) that has undergone evolution. It is composed of an evolved packet core (ePC) that oversees the transmission of data between mobile devices and the core network.
An eNodeB controls radio communication between the ePC and mobile devices. This is in contrast to an eNB, which controls mobile devices within one or multiple cells.
With LTE mobile devices, an eNB performs two primary functions. It transmits and receives radio signals to all mobile devices using analog and digital signal processing functions of the LTE air interface. Additionally, the eNB sends handover commands at a low level to control mobile device operation.
The ePC connects to nearby base stations via the S1 interface for signaling and packet forwarding during handover. Home eNBs are user-owned base stations that provide femtocell coverage in homes. These belong to closed subscriber groups (CSG) and can only be accessed by mobile phones that have a USIM that also belongs to the CSG.
Understanding Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
The Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is the core network used in mobile telecommunication. It is a complex architecture that includes various components designed to support communication networks. Although some elements are left out for simplicity reasons, the system consists of:
– Home Subscriber Server (HSS): central database that stores information about network operator’s subscribers
– Serving Gateway (S-GW): routes data between base station and PDN gateway
– Packet Gateway (P-GW): provides contact between SGi and PDN
– Policy Control and Charging Rules Function (PCRF): controls decision-making and charging functionality
P-GW, HSS, and S-GW are integrated with GPRS support nodes, such as GSN and SGSN, in packet data networks. S5/S8 are used to establish communication between serving and PDN gateways in the same network. The interface used depends on the network configuration.
Functional Split of LTE Network: E-UTRAN and EPC
This image illustrates the functional split between the Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) and the Evolved Packet Core (EPC) in an LTE network.Advantages of LTE Technology
LTE technology is widely used due to the increasing popularity of 4G smartphones. It provides a high-performance air interface for cellular mobile communication systems. With LTE, data and voice can be exchanged between participants through packet switching, allowing for efficient use of the network. The data transfer rate is high, and LTE reduces network load by releasing resources quickly. Additionally, it extends smartphone battery life due to low power consumption. LTE enables fast file uploads and downloads and allows users to watch live events, shows, and matches.
Disadvantages of 4G LTE Networks
4G LTE networks have revolutionized the mobile broadband internet services, but they come with their downsides. Some of the disadvantages of the 4G LTE networks are:
- Some cities do not have 4G service coverage yet.
- Signal strength in transit such as buses and trains needs to be improved through increasing the number of towers and new technologies.
- Managing the system is complex and might require competent professionals who will need higher salaries.
- Older smartphone versions might not be compatible with the 4G LTE technology.
- The cost of buying a new smartphone compatible with 4G LTE technology is high.
LTE Architecture: An Overview
LTE architecture is a developing standard with promising performance qualities that will improve as more LTE-enabled devices become available. Though it’s a work in progress, this basic understanding of LTE architecture could be helpful. GSM, HSPA, and LTE are wireless standards for mobile devices and data terminals, and multi-band phones can operate in all countries supporting LTE frequencies and bands.
